Examines dressed or rough sawn timber and classifies it according to quality and size.

• Examines wood for faults such as knots, bad edges, stains and poor machine work; returns faulty pieces for further machining; grades and marks satisfactory pieces according to quality and size; keeps records of defective work.

• Works outdoors in the timber yard or log storage areas, or inside at timber processing areas. If outdoors, works in all weathers.
• Protective clothing such as gloves, steel cap boots and ear muffs are utilised where appropriate.
• Carries out work in dirty, dusty or wet and hot conditions and may also work on and amongst stacks of timber and where mobile equipment is operating.
• Sharp saw blades, noise, sawdust and timber or bark chips are common on-site hazards within sawmills.

• Medium to heavy physical demand
• Constantly stands walks and moves about the worksite as required.
• Sitting is not required.
• Stretching up or across is a frequent requirement.
• Squatting, crouching or kneeling movements may be required when inspecting machinery and wood piles.
• Bending is frequently required when lifting.
• Twisting of the body or neck is frequent.
• Contact with skin irritants may result due to physical handling of timber and contact with lubricants used on saws and machinery. Cuts and abrasions may also occur.
• Heavy lifting, carrying and pulling or pushing movements are likely to be frequent.
• Repetitive movements of the hands are frequent due to the use of cutting machines and the tensioning of ties around timber packs.
• Driving of forklifts or other loading equipment is likely to be frequently required.
• May use a range of simple, mechanical and electrically driven hand tools.
• Mental skills necessary include analysis, decision-making, practical and organisational skills.

An NZQF Level 2 or 3 qualification, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4).

For some occupations a short period of on-the-job training may be required in addition to or instead of the formal qualification.

• There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.